Health

Blood clot: Four tell-tale signs of a dangerous clot developing in your leg


It is important to recognise the early warning signs of a blood clot, which is essentially an area of thickened blood that has formed a semi-solid mass inside of a vein. A blood clot that forms in the leg leads to swelling, tenderness, redness and a warm feeling around the area of the clot, Healthdirect stated. Book an appointment as soon as possible if you suspect you have a blood clot.

You are likely to be referred for a CT or ultrasound if your doctor also suspects you have a blood clot.

In addition, you might be required to have a blood test to check for signs that your blood is clotting more than it should.

Most commonly, blood clots found in the leg can be treated by taking blood-thinning medication, such as warfarin.

This will help prevent the clot from growing bigger, and it will also help to prevent new clots from forming.

READ MORE: Stroke: The modifiable lifestyle factor raising your risk by 90% – new study

This involves leading a sedentary lifestyle, as not moving for a long time can increase the risk of a blood clot developing.

Sometimes this can’t be helped, for instance if you have a leg injury or often travel on long-haul flights.

Your risk of developing a blood clot also increases if you have had a previous blood clot, or if you have a blood disorder.

This includes any type of health condition that makes clotting more likely.

Other factors that can increase the risk of a blood clot include:

  • You have cancer
  • You are overweight
  • You are pregnant
  • You are over 65
  • Blood clots run in your family
  • You smoke
  • You are taking some kinds of birth control pill.

Signs of a blood clot in the brain

Otherwise known as a stroke, symptoms include weakness or drooping on one side of the face, difficulty speaking or understanding others, blurred vision and a severe headache.

Remember to act FAST if you notice symptoms of a stroke, as the condition can be life-threatening and requires emergency treatment.

  • Face – the face may have dropped on one side, the person may not be able to smile, or their mouth or eye may have drooped.
  • Arms – the person may not be able to lift both arms and keep them there because of weakness or numbness in one arm.
  • Speech – their speech may be slurred or garbled, or the person may not be able to talk at all despite appearing to be awake; they may also have problems understanding what you’re saying to them.
  • Time – it’s time to dial 999 immediately if you notice any of these signs or symptoms.

Signs of a blood clot in the heart

Otherwise known as a heart attack, symptoms can include:

  • Chest pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Feeling weak and light-headed
  • Nausea
  • A cold sweat
  • Feeling anxious.

These too warrant a quick call to 999 to request an ambulance to come and get you.

Signs of a blood clot in the lungs

Known as a pulmonary embolism, symptoms can include shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood, sweating, and a rapid heartbeat.

In addition, you may feel dizzy and clammy – this too requires a prompt call to 999.





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